What are the Effects of Community Integration Programs for Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities and/or Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract

This evidence based review aims to elucidate the effects of community integration programs on the quality of life and the transition to adulthood for young adults with intellectual disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorders. Community Integration will encompass living in a community setting with peers (supported or independently), obtaining/ maintaining employment (supported/sheltered or competitive), participating in postsecondary education, and pursuing leisure activities in the community. Intellectual disabilities will include a disability characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior, which covers many everyday social and practical skills. This study is significant because the evidence base for these programs is not readily available to providers and occupational therapists are not routinely involved in these groups, even though it is within their scope of practice. Research is ongoing, but anticipated results are that occupational therapists are prime candidates to consult for community integration programs because of their training and a higher level of community integration leads to higher quality of life outcomes. Participants in this presentation will learn about the effects of community integration on quality of life and successful aspects of existing community integration programs.